Clinical and Diagnostic Sciences

Also known as sonographers, ultrasound technologists use equipment that generates high-frequency sound waves to obtain real-time images and information about the human body for diagnosis and evaluation. They may perform ultrasound assessments on a patient’s abdomen, brain, heart, reproductive system or musculoskeletal system.

Medical laboratory scientists are the “medical detectives” of health care, identifying diseases by examining body fluids, tissues and cells. They perform complex laboratory tests, analyze results and communicate the findings with physicians and other health care personnel. They also may develop, modify and monitor procedures and programs to ensure the accuracy of tests.

This field uses trace amounts of radioactive-labeled compounds to diagnose and treat a variety of conditions and diseases. It is at the frontier of discovering and understanding the complex physiologic processes of human bodies, affecting every field of medicine from cardiology to neurology, orthopedics to oncology.

Radiographers provide patient services using a variety of imaging machines. In addition to conventional X-ray procedures, radiographers also work with computerized tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), cardiac- and vascular-interventional radiography and quality control.

Respiratory therapists assist in the diagnosis, treatment and management of pulmonary disorders. They conduct and interpret tests to diagnose impaired lung function and are responsible for assessing, evaluating and modifying treatment. They consult, educate and advise physicians, other health care providers, the community and the patient.